Dads Fight Against Cancer



My Dad, David Marsh and his family have been faced with many battles these past few months, and are now at a crossroad. Dave is the father of five, with two young boys, who has overcome much adversity but again has been faced with another obstacle. He is a long term miner, and legion member, and has always prided himself as a provider. After moving home from spending 10 years working in South Africa, he settled his family in Ontario. He made the decision to go back again to work to rotational shifts in Africa however on his first day of work he fell ill. He was then forced to come back home to Ontario where he was diagnosed with Stage 3 Rectal Cancer. He is now fighting for his life, with 6 months planned for radiation and chemotherapy, combined with multiple surgeries, all of which need to occur at a hospital 4 hours away from his home. Not only does my dad need to find the strength to heal and get better, but also must find a way to continue to support his wife and kids, while keeping a roof over their heads, and food on the table.



One of his biggest worries is not being able to work, but still needing to provide for his wife and children. His youngest son is 15 and in high school, as well as working part time. His older son is in college, and working part time as well. His wife is putting in hours at a minimum wage job, in hopes to make ends meet, however financially it has become near impossible to keep up with bills and mortgage payments.


Reality is weighing heavy on the family, and the financial burden is causing stress which we know can halt the recovery process. My dad has always been an incredibly hard worker, trying to provide the best he can for his family, but right now he is physically unable to. As a man who has never asked for help, we as an extended family have realized we need to try to do whatever we can to find help for Dad. With 5 children, 9 grandchild and one more on the way, as well as many extended family members, we are all praying for dad and his family. As a family, we have stood by helplessly as many of our relatives have battled with cancer. Grandparents, uncles, aunts, and extended family have all lost this battle, however we have not lost hope for our Dad.



We are coming together, with love in our hearts to try to make ends meet for Dad. It is difficult asking for help from our family and friends, however this feels like the next step we need to take. We are requesting any help at all, which will be used to pay monthly mortgage, and other bills such as heating and light. Having this financial help will take some stress off my dad, and allow him to focus on what matters most right now- getting healthy. We love and appreciate each and every one of you, and appreciate you keeping dad in your prayers. Sending our love and appreciation to all. Thank you.